Methamphetamine Category: HallucinogensStimulants

How it’s used

Methamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant (‘upper’), similar to speed. It is white, odourless and bitter tasting and comes as rocks, crystals or tablets, which you can dissolve in water or alcohol. You can smoke, inject, snort or swallow it.

Short-term effects

Effects can last from 4 to 12 hours, depending on how you take it

You may have an intense rush

Even small amounts make you feel euphoric, aroused, awake, more active

Loss of appetite and rapid breathing

You may have nausea, panic attacks, compulsive repetitive behaviour and jaw clenching

Long-term effects

Tooth decay or ‘meth mouth’

Can cause paranoia, hallucinations and psychosis – when you lose contact with reality

You can become violent and aggressive

Other dangers

Overdose can cause lung, kidney and stomach disorders, stroke, coma and death

You risk HIV and hepatitis if you share needles

Increased sex drive can lead to unsafe sex, with the risk of unplanned pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV

Damage to nerve tissue (neurotoxicity) leading to concentration and memory problems

If you are pregnant

Do not use if you are pregnant as we don’t know enough about the risks to your baby.

Addictive

You can become psychologically and physically addicted, so your body craves it and you feel you can’t cope without it. You can build tolerance so you need to take more to get the same buzz.

Withdrawal

Withdrawals include depression, anxiety and craving for the drug.

How long does it stay in your system?

Meth will show up in a urine test for 2-3 days. (The length of time depends on the test used, the amount you take, if you have other medical conditions and your own metabolism. Please use this figure as a guide only)

What help is available?

Self-help support such as Narcotics Anonymous

Counselling

Complementary therapies, such as acupuncture

Support from your doctor

Residential treatment programmes (clinics)

Aftercare

One to one or group family support

Contact the Drugs Helpline 1800 459 459 to find out about options in your area